The United States has drastically reduced its financial support for Somalia, impacting the elite Danab special forces and various humanitarian and development initiatives previously funded through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). This significant shift was confirmed by Somali Finance Minister Bihi Imaan Egeh during a parliamentary session on Wednesday.

The Danab brigade, which has been crucial in counter-terrorism efforts within Somalia, was established and maintained with substantial U.S. support. The unit’s capability to stabilize regions plagued by insurgency has been notably recognized. However, the sudden cessation of U.S. funding presents a dire challenge to the operational efficacy of this elite unit.

Minister Egeh elaborated on the broader implications of the funding cuts, noting that the loss extends beyond the military sector, affecting essential humanitarian and developmental programs that assist in sustaining the nation’s socio-economic stability. The finance ministry estimates a shortfall of approximately $1.5 billion annually due to these cuts, which Egeh described as part of a “global trend” of reduced foreign aid.

“This drastic reduction in funding necessitates an urgent shift in our financial strategy,” Egeh advised lawmakers. He stressed the importance of expediting tax reforms and optimizing the management of foreign aid to mitigate the impending economic strain.

The funding cuts are aligned with a shift in priorities under the re-elected administration of President Donald Trump, signaling a pivot towards more domestically focused policies. The repercussions for Somalia are profound, as the government scrambles to identify alternative resources to support its military and developmental agendas amidst growing economic pressures.

This financial recalibration comes at a critical time for Somalia, as it continues to combat insurgency and seeks to bolster its governance and infrastructure. The withdrawal of U.S. support not only tests the resilience of Somalia’s security forces but also its broader capacity to sustain developmental progress in the face of dwindling international support.

The U.S. Embassy in Somalia has issued a dire warning about potential imminent Al-Shabaab attacks, particularly targeting Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport and other critical locations. This alert comes amidst a worrying surge in Al-Shabaab’s activities across central Somalia, which have seen the militant group making bold moves towards the capital.

Al-Shabaab has intensified its operations since February 20, orchestrating coordinated assaults across Middle Shabelle and Hiraan regions. The group’s capability to temporarily seize towns, including Balcad, just 30 kilometers from Mogadishu, before being ousted by Somali forces, underscores significant vulnerabilities in Somalia’s defense strategy against insurgents.

In response to these escalating threats, the U.S. Embassy has halted all personnel movements and continues to enforce a Level Four travel advisory, which discourages U.S. citizens from traveling to Somalia. The advisory cites multiple dangers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and health risks.

The Somali government, supported by airstrikes from U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), has actively engaged the militants, reportedly eliminating over 130 insurgents in recent conflicts. Despite these efforts, Al-Shabaab’s resilience and tactical presence in government strongholds highlight ongoing challenges.

The U.S. Embassy’s alert cautions that Al-Shabaab remains capable of executing kidnappings, bombings, and assorted attacks without warning. Places frequented by Westerners—hotels, restaurants, and shopping areas—are particularly at risk. The advisory underscores the importance of vigilance, recommending that U.S. citizens in Somalia maintain a high level of security awareness and register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates.

This situation poses profound implications for Somalia’s stability and efforts to combat terrorism within its borders. The ability of Al-Shabaab to carry out high-profile attacks not only challenges the Somali government’s control but also affects regional security dynamics, influencing international relations and aid strategies in the Horn of Africa.

As the situation develops, the international community remains watchful, and the efforts to curb the militant threat continue to be of paramount importance for ensuring peace and security in the region.

Mohamed Abdi Hassan, also known as Afweyne, has transitioned from a notorious piracy kingpin to a respected member of the Somali Parliament, securing the parliamentary seat HOP 248 in the recent elections in Dhusamareb.

Afweyne’s electoral victory, where he secured a decisive 80 votes against Sahro Hassan Abduule’s 10, marks a significant shift in his career trajectory. The seat, previously held by Saadaq Omar Hassan (Saadaq Joon), became available after Saadaq Joon was appointed Deputy Director of the Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA).

Following his release from a Belgian prison after serving 12 years for his involvement with Somali pirate groups, Afweyne’s return to Somalia and subsequent dive into politics have sparked discussions about redemption and rehabilitation. In 2013, just before his arrest, Afweyne declared his retirement from piracy and claimed to have influenced 120 others to abandon their illicit activities.

“I am deeply grateful to the MPs, ministers, and the electoral commission. I pledge to serve diligently in this role, which the people I represent have entrusted to me. I am honored by their confidence in me,” Afweyne stated after his election. This win not only reflects his personal transformation but also the willingness of the Somali people and political system to give him a second chance.

Afweyne’s election is not just a personal victory but a reflection of broader political dynamics in Somalia, where former warlords and controversial figures have often been integrated into formal political processes. His past as a piracy leader and his current role as a legislator will undoubtedly influence both his policy priorities and his credibility.

As Somalia continues to rebuild and stabilize, the roles that individuals like Afweyne play in politics are critical. His background brings unique insights and potential connections that could either advance or complicate Somalia’s ongoing peace and state-building efforts. The world will be watching how Afweyne navigates his legislative responsibilities and whether his past will influence his future contributions to Somalia’s development.

Afweyne’s political journey underscores the complex tapestry of Somali politics, where the lines between conflict and politics often blur, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the nation’s future.

Somalia’s corruption index drops again, reinforcing concerns over governance, security, and economic stability.

Somalia has once again been ranked among the world’s most corrupt countries, according to Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). With a score of just 9 out of 100, the country slid further down the rankings, securing the 179th spot out of 180 nations, second only to South Sudan.

Despite government pledges to tackle systemic corruption, the reality paints a grim picture: public funds disappear into the hands of officials, judicial institutions lack the power to prosecute wrongdoing, and bribery remains the norm in every sector. The security forces, already battling Al-Shabaab insurgents, have seen their budgets gutted by corrupt officials, further destabilizing the nation.

Anti-corruption measures, such as the establishment of the Office of the Auditor General and procurement oversight reforms, have done little to halt the tide of fraud and embezzlement. Political interference ensures that high-profile figures remain untouchable, while millions in international aid vanish without accountability.

Beyond governance, corruption is crippling Somalia’s economy and exacerbating the effects of climate change. Donor funds meant for disaster relief are siphoned off, and critical infrastructure projects remain incomplete. Meanwhile, foreign investors remain wary of engaging with a nation where fraud and mismanagement are the status quo.

Somalia’s worsening ranking reflects a broader trend in the region, with Sudan and South Sudan also among the worst offenders. Ethiopia and Kenya, while performing slightly better, continue to struggle with deep-rooted corruption, particularly in procurement and law enforcement.

With corruption now deeply embedded in Somalia’s political and economic fabric, the future remains uncertain. Without drastic action, the country risks further descent into instability, ensuring that development, security, and public trust remain elusive.

EARF Enhances Rapid Deployment and Security Measures in Kismayo

In a display of military precision and readiness, U.S. soldiers from the East Africa Response Force (EARF) engaged in a multi-day crisis response exercise at Cooperative Security Location (CSL) Kismayo, Somalia, on July 21, 2024. This critical drill aimed to sharpen the unit’s rapid deployment capabilities, security reinforcement protocols, and combat casualty care proficiency.

Part of the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), the EARF includes personnel from Task Force Paxton of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, designed for swift crisis response within the AFRICOM area. This recent exercise underscored their ability to provide limited-defense crisis response and essential support to U.S. embassies and missions across the region.

The exercise’s primary goal was to test the EARF’s speed in deploying and reinforcing security measures to protect military personnel effectively. Additionally, combat casualty care training was incorporated to ensure readiness for real-world scenarios that may arise in this volatile region.

Colonel James Riley, commander of CJTF-HOA, emphasized the importance of such exercises, stating, “Our ability to quickly deploy and reinforce security measures is crucial for maintaining the safety of our personnel and supporting our allies in the region.”

Echoing this sentiment, Major General William Zana, CJTF-HOA commander, highlighted the broader significance of these operations. “Our operations are vital for regional stability and the protection of U.S. and coalition interests. These exercises demonstrate our commitment to a ‘no-fail’ mission across the area of operation,” Zana said.

The crisis response drill in Kismayo not only showcased the EARF’s rapid deployment prowess but also reinforced the U.S. military’s dedication to maintaining security and stability in East Africa. This exercise is a testament to the unwavering commitment to protecting both U.S. interests and regional allies, ensuring readiness in the face of any potential crisis.

The European Union introduces stricter Schengen visa regulations for Somalia to improve readmission cooperation. Changes include single-entry visas, higher fees, and longer processing times.

In a decisive move, the European Union Commission has proposed stringent new visa regulations for Somalia. This initiative aims to enhance cooperation on the readmission of Somali nationals who have entered and stayed in the EU without proper documentation. The proposed changes, pending EU Council approval, include issuing only single-entry visas, increasing visa fees, and extending application processing times from 15 to 45 days. Additionally, the EU may suspend certain regulations requiring the submission of supporting documents for visa applications.

“Despite steps taken by the EU and its Member States to improve readmission cooperation, Somalia’s efforts remain insufficient,” the EU Commission declared. This proposal forms part of the EU’s broader strategy to manage irregular migration within its borders by ensuring countries cooperate on the readmission of their nationals.

The EU has implemented similar measures against other countries, such as Ethiopia and The Gambia. In April, multiple-entry Schengen visas were halted for Ethiopians, and visa fees were increased for Gambian nationals, although the fee hike was later revoked. Other measures against The Gambia remain in place.

The Commission’s statement noted that the proposal would soon be presented to the EU Council, where member states will decide on the next steps. This move underscores the EU’s firm stance on managing migration and ensuring compliance with readmission agreements.

Amid Explosions and Controversy, Somali Women Defy Odds in Groundbreaking Beauty Pageant

On a night when most of Somalia tuned in to the Euro football final, a very different kind of spectacle unfolded at Mogadishu’s Elite Hotel. Hundreds gathered to witness the Miss Somalia pageant, a daring celebration of beauty and resilience in one of the world’s most dangerous places to be a woman. Just a kilometer away, the grim reality of Somali life was underscored by a car bomb explosion that killed five and injured twenty. The militant group al-Shabab, notorious for its reign of terror over Somalia, claimed responsibility for the attack.

The juxtaposition of a beauty pageant with such violence highlights the schizophrenic nature of life in Somalia. While pageant contestants paraded in glamorous gowns, the nearby explosion shattered the night, a stark reminder of the pervasive threat of terrorism. This contrast paints a vivid picture of a nation grappling with its identity and future.

Hani Abdi Gas, founded the competition in 2021. In a country where Islamist militants and conservative traditions dominate, her initiative is nothing short of revolutionary. Gas, who grew up in the Dadaab refugee camp in Kenya before returning to Somalia in 2020, sees the pageant as more than a beauty contest. It’s a platform for lifting women’s voices, fostering unity, and empowering Somali women.

Gas believes that Somalia, long deemed one of the worst places to be a woman, is ready to join the rest of the world in celebrating female beauty and aspiration. “I want to celebrate the aspirations of women from diverse backgrounds, build their confidence, and give them a chance to showcase Somali culture worldwide,” she said.

This year’s contestants reflected this diversity. Among them was a policewoman, a powerful symbol of women breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated society. However, not everyone was pleased. Many Somalis view beauty pageants as affronts to their culture and religion. Clan leader Ahmed Abdi Halane expressed disgust, saying, “Such things are against our culture and our religion. If a girl wears tight clothes and appears on stage, it will bring shame upon her family and her clan. Women are supposed to stay at home and wear modest clothes.”

Some women also oppose the pageant. Sabrina, a student, criticized the contestants for appearing in public without covering their necks, saying, “It is good to support the Somali youth but not in ways that conflict with our religion.”

Despite these criticisms, the pageant proceeded with its vibrant display of Somali culture. Aisha Ikow, a 24-year-old university student and make-up artist, was crowned Miss Somalia, taking home a $1,000 prize. Ikow, representing South-West state, vowed to use her platform to combat early marriage and promote girls’ education. “The competition celebrates Somali culture and beauty while shaping a brighter future for women,” she said.

The judging panel, which included Miss Somalia 2022 and a representative from the Ministry of Youth, found it hard to choose a winner. They assessed contestants on physical beauty, public speaking, and stage presence. An online vote, costing $1 per vote, funded the event and future international pageant participation.

The glitzy event in a luxury hotel contrasted sharply with the harsh realities faced by most Somali women. Four million Somalis, a quarter of the population, are internally displaced, with up to 80% being women. The UN ranks Somalia near the bottom on the Gender Inequality Index, with alarming rates of gender-based violence and female genital mutilation. Traditional practices still dictate that a rapist must marry his victim, and legal protections for women are severely lacking.

Despite these challenges, the Miss Somalia pageant signifies a slow but significant change. The fact that such an event could be held in Mogadishu, even amid nearby violence, indicates a shift in societal attitudes and an improvement in security.

The crowd at the Elite Hotel stayed until the early hours, undeterred by the attack’s proximity. They were engrossed in the pageant, the sound of the explosion drowned out by the waves crashing on the nearby beach.

In a nation torn by conflict and conservative values, the Miss Somalia pageant stands as a beacon of hope. It is a testament to the resilience of Somali women and their determination to carve out spaces of empowerment and celebration. As Somalia continues to navigate its complex identity, events like these are crucial in shaping a more inclusive and progressive future.

Kiin Hassan Fakat, reporting with Bilan Media, and Mary Harper, author of two books on Somalia, provide a lens into this transformative moment, capturing the courage and aspirations of Somali women amidst a backdrop of turmoil.

President Museveni and President Ruto Warn of Increased Insecurity Amid Al-Shabaab Resurgence

By Kasim Abdulkadir:

Uganda and Kenya express concerns over the planned ATMIS troop withdrawal from Somalia, citing rising terrorism threats and regional instability.

The scheduled departure of ATMIS troops from Somalia has raised significant alarm among regional leaders, notably Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and Kenyan President William Ruto. The two leaders, whose countries contribute troops to ATMIS, voiced their concerns during a recent meeting in Nairobi. They emphasized the potential security vacuum that could be exploited by terrorist groups like Al-Shabaab, thus threatening regional stability.

The United Nations Security Council’s withdrawal plan involves removing 4,000 ATMIS troops by the end of June, following the departure of 5,000 troops last year. This downsizing has reportedly allowed Al-Shabaab to reclaim substantial territories, undermining recent military gains by Somali forces.

President Ruto and President Museveni

President Ruto highlighted that both he and President Museveni agree on the necessity of aligning the troop reduction with the security conditions in Somalia. Analysts and security experts have echoed these concerns, arguing that Somalia’s military is not yet equipped to maintain control over the reclaimed areas.

Abdisalan Guled, a former deputy security chief in Somalia, warned that the withdrawal could jeopardize the significant strides made against Al-Shabaab. He noted that central and southern Somalia remain hotspots for extremism, with numerous incidents reported in regions like Galmudug and Hirshabelle.

International partners, including the European Union, have also expressed apprehension. They caution that the Somali National Army (SNA) lacks the capacity to assume full security responsibilities, urging a reconsideration of the withdrawal timeline.

Since its inception nearly 17 years ago, ATMIS (formerly AMISOM) has played a crucial role in stabilizing key areas of Somalia, including the capital Mogadishu. Despite criticisms over its inability to decisively weaken Al-Shabaab, ATMIS has been instrumental in maintaining a semblance of order and security.

Security expert Farah Ow Osman supports the Somali government’s request to delay the ATMIS withdrawal, arguing that an extension would provide Somali forces the necessary time to strengthen their position against Al-Shabaab. He suggests that this delay could potentially be endorsed by the United Nations Security Council, ensuring a smoother transition and sustained stability in Somalia.

The departure of ATMIS troops presents a significant challenge to the region’s security landscape. With Al-Shabaab poised to exploit any gaps left by the withdrawal, the concerns raised by Presidents Museveni and Ruto underscore the need for a carefully managed and strategically timed exit to prevent a resurgence of violence and instability. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the gains made against terrorism in Somalia can be preserved and built upon.

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